Goodrich-Kirtland Park - Cleveland, OH

Urbanization began as early as 1870 in the Goodrich-Kirtland Park area as industries grew along the rail lines that paralleled Lake Erie's southern shore. Once home to over 29,000 people in the 1900s, the suburb's population decreased to around 5,000 as many residential areas gave way to businesses. Some of the houses, built in the late 1800s, remain in small, residential pockets. As the industry of the late 1800s and early 1900s has shifted, the warehouses and other industrial structures are being converted into loft spaces and art studios.

Providing excellent opportunities to explore the past, nearby Cleveland offers many museums and a full body-art scene, all in proximity to the area. The Great Lakes Science Center is a family favorite that offers many hands-on activities allowing you to experience science like never before. Embark on an exciting space adventure, or let your little explorers romp in the Polymer Fun house.

If you want to dine locally, options include a wide variety of Asian cuisine and locally-owned eateries. More restaurants are available in the city and surrounding suburbs. Just a short drive along Interstate 90 takes you to a host of dining options, ranging from luxurious to down-home-comfort restaurants with plenty of variety in between. With such close access to the greater Cleveland area, tantalizing options abound, as does a roaring nightlife.

Home to possibly the best, certainly the biggest, corned-beef sandwich you have ever had, Slyman's Restaurant is located on St. Claire Boulevard. This neighborhood staple draws visitors wanting to get a taste of the overstuffed sandwiches that never leave diners hungry. The in-house creamy cole slaw complements any one of its famous sandwiches or burgers. Morning guests should make sure to stop in for the omelets, stuffed with all your favorite ingredients and smothered in cheesy goodness.

Goodrich-Kirtland Park presents some of the most authentic Asian cuisine in the area. The options are almost endless here. You find the best pho and bo bia rolls at Superior Pho on Superior Avenue. Huge portions of amazing food pair with outstanding service in this tucked-away little treasure.

Locals say that the best Chinese food in town can be found at Han Chinese Kabob and Grill. The lamb kabobs are the most raved about in the city. Don't forget to try the spicy stir-fried cabbage with chili powder, slightly charred and always served to perfection.

If it's nightlife you crave, you won't be disappointed. Close access to the downtown area means this neighborhood lies in the heart of the entertainment mecca. The area offers a large variety of bars and pubs including Parnell's Irish Pub and Hofbrauhaus Cleveland. A host of small, locally-owned taverns are present on almost every street corner. No matter what your tastes, you are sure to find the right spot to quench your thirst, including a host of upscale wine taverns nearby.

Cleveland owes a great deal of its prosperity to its well-developed transportation routes and close proximity to rail and waterways. Transport outside or within the city is easily accessed from the nearby Goodrich-Kirtland Park area, with many options to choose from.

Automobile travel is a popular option among residents, but public transportation is equally effective. Public bus travel provided by RTA, the Cleveland Rapid Transit, offers an inexpensive way to get around the city and explore the Cleveland area. Parking options vary from free public parking in Goodrich-Kirtland Park to reasonably-priced parking garages throughout the Greater Cleveland area.

Cleveland-Hopkin's Airport is just six miles east of Goodrich-Kirtland Park and is easily accessed via Oh-252. Taxis are plentiful in the Cleveland area, but you need to call to arrange pickup.

Bike paths are available or in development in many areas of the city, as are sidewalks. However, many of the more industrial areas are still without them. City-planning committees are diligently working to make this a more bike-friendly part of the greater city.

The annual Asian Festival held at the Asian Plaza is a highly-anticipated, fun-filled experience complete with great food and unbeatable entertainment. It ranks as an absolute favorite time of year among the residents and a can't-miss if you are new to the area.

If you long to explore the great outdoors, many neighboring cities offer a vast array of opportunities. Cleveland Lakefront State Park on Lakeshore Boulevard is a nature preserve situated along scenic Lake Erie. You can explore the changing landscape or admire the vast array of wild foliage.

Cleveland Cultural Gardens may be one of the most unique features in the area, representing more than 30 nationalities in the well-kept gardens that abound in this treasured gem. Frequented in the summer months for the live free concerts or other events, this park has something for everyone. Just a little farther down the road sits Glenville Park, a great place to get some exercise while taking your dog for a stroll.

The Cleveland Metropolitan Zoo, one of the finest in the country, offers an exciting adventure for the whole family. Cleveland residents are granted free access every Monday. Ride the tram to make your travel a little easier while admiring the amazing wildlife. The Zoo offers many child-friendly activities, educational lessons, and opportunities to get up-close and personal with the animals.

On average, expect to pay $1,251 for a one-bedroom apartment in Goodrich-Kirtland Park. Gas prices are reasonable and hover around or below national average by about one percent, but travel into the greater Cleveland area may have you paying slightly more. The same is true of beer prices, which range between $2.50 and $6. Bus and rapid transit fares are a standard rate, $2.25 per ride, with discounts available for seniors and the disabled. Monthly passes are also available. A taxi ride into the city costs only $10 to $20 per trip, depending on your location.

This heterogeneous community is characterized by stores and boutiques that cater to the diversity of its residents' unique tastes. Treasured by locals and an alluring attraction to outsiders, Asia Plaza located on Payne Avenue offers an authentic blend of American to Asian style products. You can find almost everything under one roof. The Supermarket offers Asian cuisine at its finest, from the freshest fruits to the finest meats, in a delightful setting. Drop by Koko Bakery for a variety of handmade pastries to please your sweet tooth. The art galleries on the second floor offer fine pieces to add to your home decor. The plaza is in pristine condition and adorned by gorgeous statues that change annually with the Chinese New Year.

Small businesses and commercial storefronts offering furniture and apparel are plentiful and easy to find nearby. Be sure to check out Flower City Gift Shop, which offers only products made in the United States, along with an impressive collection of Thomas Kinkade art. With quick access to the downtown area, you don't have to travel far to fulfill all of your shopping needs.